As expected, I faced my fight against breast cancer with the unswerving love and devotion of my family and friends.

But I also had the support of strangers, many of whom shared comforting expressions of faith and hope.

Some of these supporters were fans. Some were critics. All who reached out shared their belief that I could conquer the crippling fear of a cancer diagnosis.

On Wednesday, I got good news from Dr. Andrea Madrigrano, the surgeon who performed the first phase of my treatment: my cancer is gone.

Her words affirmed two beliefs that I clung to during the period between my diagnosis and my treatment: that God is still a healer, and that early detection of breast cancer is still the key to saving a woman's life.

There are many steps that I took on this journey that I will no doubt share in the future.

But today I want to thank God for hearing my prayers and the prayers of the people who lifted me up during church services and in private devotions.

I am grateful for my doctors, including Dr. Sami Bittar, the noted plastic surgeon, for being the healing hands God is using to restore me to good health.

While I thank the entire staff at Rush University Medical Center for the care they gave me after my surgery, I would be remiss if I didn't publicly thank Lori Blakey, R.N., a part-time nurse at the hospital.

Despite having a husband who is preparing to be a paramedic with the Chicago Fire Department, and the mother of four, Blakey brought a boundless energy and consistent compassion to my bedside, putting me on the path to a speedy recovery.

She went out of her way to be of comfort and to make me smile.

I am especially grateful that she was extremely patient when it came to showing my sisters how to care for me after I was released.

You didn't have to wonder whether or not Blakey liked her job. Her positive energy was the light that led us out of the dark tunnel from diagnosis to recovery.

Blakey's approach to her profession reminded me that when we pull together and give our best to an endeavor, there is nothing that can defeat us -- even a cancer diagnosis.

Today, I thank God for the mercy and his grace he has shown me and my family.

After a period of healing, I expect to be back at the paper doing the work that I love.

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7 Comments

I'm so happy for your recovery. My family was'nt as fortunate. Both my mother and sisters suffered and then passed away from breast cancer. Our family has never been the same. My sister and my mom were both strong mentally, physically,and spritually.They were independent black women who help to hold our family together. Yes, we still have our faith. It's important to hear stories of success, because God's mercy and grace continues to shine. Thanks for your story. May God continue to bless you and your family with love, peace,and good health.

TO THOSE OF US WITH BREAST CANCER YOU DON'T HAVE TO GET YOUR BREAST AMPUTATED, GET CHEMOTHERAPY, RADIATION THAT WILL NOT ONLY WORSEN THE PROBLEM BUT WILL SEND YOU TO THE HOSPICE TO DIE ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS STOP EATING MEAT AND DAIRY PRODUCTS COMPLETELY AND FEAST TOTALLY OFF OF PLANT FOOD AND VEGETABLES REASON BEING IS THAT THE MEAT AND DAIRY PRODUCTS WE CONSUME HAVE MORE THAN ENOUGH POISON TO WEAKEN OUR IMMUNE SYSTEMS TO ALLOW CANCERS CELLS TO STRENGTHEN AND TAKE OVER. GO TO WWW.RAVEDIET.COM FOR MORE DETAILS...

first of all id like to congratulate you on beating cancer thats not easy, i know many people with it or having had it. i seen you and father on cnn the other day actually by accident because that network is corrupt much like chicago politics, it seems you and him are very consistent in blaming everyone but the actual people who commit thses horrible crimes. its the teachers, no wait its the police, no wait its guns well you couldnt use that one because there wasnt one. you both dont have the guts to blame the people who are truly guilty, this tactic has never worked it just keeps happening. maybe its george bush's fault? i know race baiting keeps you and father in the news but for once try the truth!

My husband and I are sooo glad that your cancer is totally gone! Woo Hoo :-) When we first heard about it, we were shocked. But now, you are healthy and strong! We really enjoy watching you on the Friday Night show here in Chicago on channel 11. You are a very strong and courageous woman. We knew you could do it!! :-) May God bless you and your loved ones. You go girl!!!! :-) Keep on truckin'!!!! You are doing great! You are the BEST!

PS: We tried to get you as a friend on Facebook, but it came back as full. It would not accept our request. We would love to have you as a friend!